A few months ago I checked out Standard Baking Co.’s Pastries cookbook from the library, and I loved it so much I ended up going out and buying the book myself. The entire cookbook is a gem- beautiful photographs, cozy stories, and creative, but timeless recipes. I’ve been baking my way through it slowly and have enjoyed each recipe. These scones may be a new favorite. They’re the kind of scone you wish every coffee shop carried. Tender and soft, not too sweet, and I adore the extra texture and heartiness they get from the oats (and I feel like I’m eating more than just a carb!). The original recipe calls for fresh blueberries. I used dried wild blueberries I had on hand. Just about any fruit or dried fruit [...]

While it’s taste isn’t for everyone- bitter and grassy- matcha green tea is one of my very favorite flavors. I was busy planning some late night Christmas cookie baking and was measuring for a family standby- Nutmeg Meltaways, when the idea to modify them into a matcha version came over me. The pecans in our version got swapped out with almonds, and a touch of that vibrant and potent green tea powder was added to the dough. I still added a grating of nutmeg to the powdered sugar but it can certainly be left out as well. If you’re a matcha fan, enjoy. How to make this high altitude adjusted recipe: Matcha Meltaways Adapted from Taste of Home Magazine Print Matcha Meltaways Recipe type: High Altitude Baking   A matcha green [...]

My husband adores the type of sugar cookies that are rolled out, cut out, baked, iced, and then covered in sprinkles. There’s nothing wrong with this except that this process can take awhile- not including chilling the dough. For those of you short on time I’ve discovered a new recipe that shortcuts several of these steps. The dough can be rolled out right from the mixer. While your oven preheats, stick the cookie sheets outside to chill (take advantage of the mountains in the winter). I also have a fast method for icing cookies. When your cookies are cool, dip them face down in a small bowl of the icing, being sure to cover the whole cookie. Lift it back up, keeping it horizontal. Skim it across the edge of [...]

Earlier this summer, I spent a week in Denver filming my cake decorating class for Craftsy. While I was there, I quickly learned how rapidly their company is growing, and how frequently they are adding new classes (very often!).     I first started using Craftsy a few years ago when I wanted to learn new cake techniques. The platform is very easy- after purchasing your class you immediately have instant access to your lessons. You can also contact your instructor with questions, any time. The entire class can be viewed at your own pace. Craftsy isn’t just for cake decorating. They also have classes on sewing, quilting, knitting, cooking, baking, art, and more. Heading into the holidays, this could be a fun way to learn something new or hone your skills [...]